Overview & Reviews

Can you be cool and practical? Skinny jeans and high-heeled shoes would indicate otherwise, but the Scion tC proves that it just might be possible. It certainly seems pretty cool, with a coupe body style, sharp looks and a variety of customization opportunities for younger buyers accustomed to getting things the way they want them. Scion has also frequently updated the tC's audio systems, which has given it a leg up as iPods and iPhones have gradually taken over the world.

At the same time, however, the tC's coupelike roof line masks hatchback utility with its impressive cargo capacity and a surprisingly spacious backseat. Moving dorm rooms or taking your friends out on the town is consequently much easier with the tC than it is with traditional coupes. This ability to be both cool and practical is indeed the tC's primary appeal, although sharing a reputation for reliability with Toyota (Scion's parent company) is also a compelling attraction.

Current Scion tC
The Scion tC is a five-seat compact hatchback coupe. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, boasting 179 horsepower (1 less than before) and 173 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is the lone factory option. Although the tC's combined fuel economy estimate of 26 mpg is respectable, most rivals are more fuel-efficient.

The tC comes in two trim levels: base and the limited edition "10 Series." Standard features for the base tC include 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a touchscreen interface and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB interface and RCA output jacks. The 10 Series, which celebrates Scion's 10th birthday, adds unique silver paint, dark-finished wheels, illuminated badges, LED accent lighting, an illuminated center console and premium stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Dealer-installed options include a navigation system, upgraded audio units and multicolored interior mood lighting.

Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and far-sliding seats make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split-folding rear seats that recline up to 45 degrees. With its rear seats folded down, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds flat, which allows the car to accommodate long items such as surfboards.

Though the tC isn't especially sporty to drive, the interior does its best to indicate otherwise. The thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel looks as if it was pulled from a racecar, while controls canted toward the driver further this impression. Unfortunately, the interior is filled with hard plastics that seem cheaper than those found in the tC's rivals. On the road, the Scion tC is responsive and involving enough to keep you entertained around town, but not so sporty that you'd relish driving it on a curvy back road. The steering has decent weighting and feel, but the stability control has a tendency to kick in frequently during aggressive driving.

Overall, the Scion tC is a respectable choice for a compact coupe. If driving fun is a priority, there are better choices, including Scion's own FR-S. But for those shoppers mainly wanting something stylish and practical, the tC will certainly satisfy.

Used Scion tC Models
The current-generation tC debuted for 2011. The following year brought standard Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, as well as the Release Series 7.0 that sported flashy yellow paint, a body kit, black wheels and keyless ignition and entry. For 2013 there was the similarly themed but very red Release Series 8.0, whose highlights also included a sport-tuned suspension, a center-exit exhaust and, for those fitted with the automatic transmission, paddle shifters. Although otherwise similar, note that these tCs lack the current version's updates that include revised styling with a much more aggressive face, an improved automatic transmission (with rev-matched downshifts) and slightly retuned suspension and steering systems.

The first-generation Scion tC was produced from 2005-'10. Like the current car, it was a two-door hatchback coupe with five seats and a single trim level. Standard equipment included 17-inch wheels, air-conditioning, split-folding-and-reclining rear seats, keyless entry, full power accessories with one-touch power windows, a dual-pane sunroof, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a premium sound system. An iPod interface was added for 2008, making the tC one of the first vehicles to get such a feature.

A considerable number of optional features and accessories (from the factory or dealer-installed) were available on the Scion coupe. Most notable was the airbag package with side and head curtain airbags, so make sure to note whether a used tC is so equipped. Other mods included interior and exterior styling add-ons, 18-inch wheels, audio system head unit upgrades and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance parts.

Power came from a strong 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 161 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. Fuel economy was one of the tC's detriments, with an EPA combined rating of 24 mpg for the automatic -- about the same that most midsize sedans offer. There was a dealer-installed TRD supercharger available that raised engine output to 200 hp.

Inside, this tC's layout was very similar to that of the current car, with a roomy reclining backseat and generous hatchback trunk. There wasn't as much front seat legroom, however, and the steering wheel did not telescope. The tC's cabin had an upscale look and feel thanks to high-quality materials (for the time and class) and metallic-look trim pieces. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flowed into the center console, with a panel that covered up whichever of the many available stereo faceplates were affixed to the car.

In Scion tC reviews, our editors commented that this tC was enjoyable to drive, though hardly a sport coupe. Although its acceleration figures weren't stunning, the tC was quick enough for typical urban use. As with the current car, we were most impressed by its ability to be both stylish and practical, noting it was an ideal car for the youthful demographic for which it was intended.

This original tC changed very little during its run. However, there were minor exterior and interior updates made for 2008 -- including the addition of an iPod-specific interface. There were several updates made to the available stereo systems over the years as well, along with new items added to the extensive optional features list. A decontented, tuner-intended version known as the Spec was available for a few model years (ending in 2008) and could easily be picked out of a crowd by its unique paint colors and badge-less grille. The Release Series 6.0 for 2010 looked similar, but it actually had more equipment than the norm.

User Reviews:

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  Great Value - 2005 Scion TC
  By Nick V. - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased the vehicle yesterday. Cant believe how much car you get for so little money. Drove the car 100 home from the dealer and it rides just as great on the highway as it does in town. Nice acceleration even in 5th for a 4cyl engine. I compared the Mazda 3s and Saturn Ion before deciding on the Scion tC.

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  Highly Recommended! - 2007 Scion TC
  By ME - June 21 - 3:56 am

  It was between the Civic and the tC, and in performance on the road, let me tell you this guy rocks for a 4 cyl. Got the Bazooka sub from the dealer, and it produces an OK amount of bump, but you can certainly get a lot more for the money with an aftermarket one. The only thing I really miss is automatic headlights. Its been a month and 1000 miles later, and Im really pleased with my purchase! I highly recommend this car for anyone not wanting to spend a lot of cash for a lot of bang!

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  After a few years... - 2006 Scion TC
  By JW - June 18 - 7:56 am

  The paint chips and scratches with ease. The are plenty of rattles. Many of the interior plastic covers( such as seatbelt bolts) have cracked. The optional leather seats are cracking ( garage parked). The sun roof freezes at on occasion. When I hit a small bump and brake, the brakes "skip" and make a metallic noise. Have complained to the dealer over the years. They say it is "normal"; however, a delay in braking is not "normal."The rotors started rusting on the first year.

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  Love it...but having mpg problems - 2005 Scion TC
  By nvi4imaqt pi - June 17 - 10:00 am

  I love it-- its a great car, and it drives great. However, has anyone else been having gas mileage problems? Its supposed to get 23-29 mpg, but Ive tested it twice and mine only gets 15 mpg! This is really scary, and I know Im figuring it out right. But besides that, Ive had no problems with it. If anyone else has noticed their tCs gas mileage is considerably worse than it should be, please respond in a review.

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  More bang for your buck.... - 2005 Scion TC
  By Murf the Surf - June 17 - 10:00 am

  If youre looking for a fun, fast(relatively speaking) and versatile vehicle with excellent fuel economy, then the search is over(if you can find one for sale). The 05 Scion tC is, for once, better than the hype. The quality, fit and finish is up to Lexus standards. The value is exceptional with standard features like one touch up/down power windows for both driver and passenger, a sound system with 6 speakers that puts you in the center of the concert and 4 wheel force balanced ABS brakes that puts safety at all corners. The only drawback is that they are hard to find right now.(are you listening Toyota?) I think its worth the wait....

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  I like it alot but... - 2005 Scion TC
  By tom - June 15 - 12:26 pm

  my review about my scion tc is... My thougts on the scion tc are very skattered. If i could have control of the car i would first off put more horsepower. This car needs to have at least 220-230 horsepower, it would attract more people, because people love speed. Affordable is another thing even if the car comes out with 230 horsepower and its now $18,000-$19,000 (starting) its worth it. So my review of the car is basicly all i need is horsepower everything else about the car i like alot but always end up bein left behind the crowd in traffic.....

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  Awesome Car at Awesome Price - 2009 Scion TC
  By scchilling74 - June 14 - 2:46 pm

  I have owned this car for almost a year and I must say I still love to drive it. I have owned allot of cars over the years and I usually get bored with them after a few months, but not my tC. This car has the necessary power, style and comfort to keep you coming back for more. I really like that Toyota did the first two scheduled maintenance services for free. The car is put together well and offers a spacious sleek design for a coupe. I went from driving a truck to my tC and I havent missed my truck, aside from the occassional need to haul something big. I got the optional Nav system which was a bit pricey but worth the money.

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  2006 Scion tC - 2006 Scion TC
  By Kristy - June 7 - 11:50 am

  I fully enjoy my new Scion tC. It has great visibility and it handles the road really well. It is a nice car for the price.

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  tC Quickie - 2007 Scion TC
  By Fallen_Demon - June 6 - 3:53 am

  Well, I got my tC brand new this past November, and I must say, I LOVE everything about it!

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  Great Car for the Money - 2007 Scion TC
  By Rocky - May 28 - 4:23 pm

  I just bought this car a few weeks ago. So far it is great in almost every aspect. The highway gas mileage seems low though (only 28 mpg so far) I am hoping that it gets better. It drives great and is a great compromise for practicality. I am not excited about the low treadwear of the tires.